NMC bans sky rockets and sky shots in Nagpur till November 30 after 42 fires on Lakshmi Puja day

The Nagpur Municipal Corporation has taken a strict step after a sharp rise in fires caused by firecrackers during Diwali. Bursting rockets, sky shots and similar aerial fireworks has been banned.

The corporation's Urban Disaster Management Authority (UDMA) has imposed the ban from November 9 to November 30, 2026. Dr Vipin Itankar, chairperson of the authority and municipal commissioner, issued the order.

On Lakshmi Puja day, more than 42 fires broke out across the city in just 24 hours. Public property suffered heavy damage in these incidents. A preliminary inquiry found that sparks from rockets and sky shots fired into the air caused the fires.

If burning sparks from such firecrackers fall on nearby buildings, shops and vehicles, a major accident can result. A fire at scrap shops, godowns, petrol pumps or places storing inflammable material raises the risk to life and property further.

According to the order, given Nagpur's layout, growing population, high-rise buildings, dense settlements, slums and large number of commercial establishments, such firecrackers carry the risk of a serious accident. Bursting aerial fireworks is therefore prohibited within the municipal limits on building rooftops, terraces, balconies, refuge areas, narrow roads, slums, densely populated residential areas, markets and parking areas.

The chief fire officer's report has also recorded a rise in fire incidents during this period. This could put additional pressure on the fire brigade and obstruct its access to the spot. The precautionary decision has been taken to prevent possible accidents, protect public property and ensure people's safety.

The ban will remain in force from November 9 to November 30, 2026. Responsibility for enforcing the order has been given to the Nagpur Police Commissionerate and the municipal corporation's fire department. The departments concerned have been directed to follow the order strictly.

Those who violate the order will face punitive and legal action under Sections 51 to 60 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, and the applicable provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. The administration says the strict decision has been taken so that the fires seen during Diwali are not repeated and people's safety is not endangered.